Samsung union demands immediate withdrawal of bill allowing part of wages to be paid in local currency
The Samsung Group Super-Enterprise Union 7 month 10 demanded the immediate withdrawal of an amendment to the Labor Standards Act that would allow part of wages, including performance-based pay, to be paid in local love gift certificates when workers give explicit consent or a collective agreement is in place. The union defined this as an attempt to undermine the foundation of wage payments.
The Samsung Group Super-Enterprise Union 7 month 10 demanded the immediate withdrawal of an amendment to the Labor Standards Act that would allow part of wages to be paid in local love gift certificates if workers consent. The union argued that this measure was an attempt to undermine the foundation of wage payments.
The union is the largest super-enterprise union, formed around the Samsung Electronics branch. It said that workers in the semiconductor (DS) division form its main base.
The amendment was introduced as the lead bill by lawmaker Park Min-gyu 7 month 8. The amendment stipulates that, when workers give explicit consent or a collective agreement is in place, part of wages may be paid in forms other than currency, such as local love gift certificates.
The union 10criticized the proposal to pay part of wages, including performance bonuses, in gift certificates, saying it undermines the principle that wages must be paid in currency. It stated that it was demanding the proposal’s immediate withdrawal.
The union said it would convey its strong opposition to the government and the National Assembly, arguing that the amendment concerns changing the principle of wage payments. It said that any consultations with the company or further statements would be announced later.
The bill has currently been submitted to the National Assembly. The official schedule for the subsequent review of the bill will be determined in accordance with National Assembly procedures.